Annual Report 2011
Foreword
Through its decision to phase out nuclear power, Germany has become a global trailblazer in making
the transition to an energy supply based completely on renewable energy sources. If this ambitious
plan proves successful, this can facilitate efforts to achieve the ecological transformation of
economic systems throughout the world. The Heinrich Böll Foundation is actively involved in this
process, both nationally and internationally. We develop and support projects that will push this
transition: through forward-looking mobility concepts, the renewal of our urban centers, and the
sustainable use of scarce resources. We support people who are working to counteract misguided
policies and who advocate alternatives – in agriculture, in the mining industry, and in the energy
sector.
Europe is being shaken by a persistent financial and debt crisis that poses powerful challenges
both to individual member states and to European institutions. While financial markets react to
developments with great speed and volatility, transnational decision-making processes tend to be
complicated and time-consuming. What can we do to enhance the European Union’s capacity to
act while simultaneously improving the transparency of European policymaking? “More Europe”
must go hand-in-hand with more democratic participation. This is also the best antidote to populist
movements that are turning against European integration and the rights of minorities. This
is reason enough for us to intensify our activities and commitment to foster a united, democratic
Europe.
The upheavals in the Arab world – including in Libya, Tunisia, and Egypt – represent a historic
turning point. These changes have significant ramifications for these countries’ internal sociopolitical
systems, for international cooperation, and for relations between the Arab countries
themselves. The mass demonstrations in Tunis and Cairo swept away the old regimes and opened
the gates to democratization throughout the region. At the same time, ensuing events have made
clear that the political, social, and economic modernization of the Arab world will be a long and
complicated process. Current developments in these countries are having a major impact on our
work in the region and in Germany. We deliver information through analyses and reports from
and on the Arab region, and we provide support to local democratic forces. In addition, we are expanding
our presence in the region by establishing offices in Tunisia and Morocco.
Discrimination based on gender and sexuality remains a crucial issue on the international
political agenda. In Germany and in many regions around the world, we work together with courageous
partners to build societies that are characterized by gender justice and to protect sexual
minorities. We pool capacities, expand existing networks, and build new ones. This year’s Annual
Report also highlights our activities in this important area.
The knowledge and dedication of our staff form the essential foundation for our successful
work. Their efforts are further enriched by the extensive voluntary support provided by our expert
advisory boards, expert commissioners, women’s council, supervisory board, membership meeting,
and the Green Academy. We would like to express our great thanks to all of those who contribute
to the effectiveness of the Heinrich Böll Foundation’s work.
Berlin, April 2012
Ralf Fücks / Barbara Unmüßig
Presidents, Heinrich Böll Foundation
| Annual Report 2011 - Annual Report 2011 |
|
| Editor | Heinrich Böll Foundation |
| Place of publication | Berlin |
| Date of publication | April 2011 |
| Pages | 32 |
| ISBN | -- |
| Service charge | Free of charge |